10 Ways To Manage Mental Health At Workplace

 Managing mental health at the workplace is very crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive work environment. Be it at corporate offices, Schools or Colleges, any Government sectors, Universities etc. Every person today is suffering from poor mental health.  Assocham reports that 42.5 percent of Indian corporate employees suffer from depression or generalized anxiety disorder.  The effects of the pandemic and the uncertainty around economies and jobs have taken a toll on mental health. According to a survey by Deloitte, Indian working women (48%) face higher burnout than the global average (46%). 

A person's work-life balance positively correlates with mental well-being. So, organizations play a significant role in society’s overall mental well-being since many people spend much of their time and energy in the workplace.

Here are some 10 different ways to manage mental health at work:

1. Practice Open Communication: 

Encourage open communication about mental health concerns and create a safe and non-judgmental environment where everyone will feel comfortable discussing their challenges.

2. Educate Oneself: 

Attending workshops, seminars, or training sessions to raise awareness about mental health issues and equip oneself with the knowledge and skills to identify and manage mental health effectively.

3. Make Best Use Of Organization's Policies: 

Getting access to policies that support employee mental health, such as flexible work hours, remote work options, or designated mental health days. These policies can help oneself to manage their workload and reduce stress.

4. Be Mindful & Reduce Stigma: 

Foster a culture of understanding and empathy by actively challenging stigmas associated with mental health. Encourage open discussions and provide and access resources to help yourself and other employees to better understand mental health conditions.

5.  Attending EAPs: 

EAPs (Employee Assistance Programs) provide confidential counseling and support services to employees. These programs can offer professional help and guidance for various mental health concerns.

6. Access To Mental Health Resources: 

Share and get information about mental health resources, such as helplines, therapy services, or online self-help resources. Ensure that you are aware of the available support networks.

7. Balancing Work-Life: 

Promote a healthy work-life balance by encouraging yourself to take breaks, use your vacation time, and disconnect from work outside of regular working hours. This helps prevent burnout and supports mental well-being. Avoid mixing your personal life with professional life, keep both at two different poles to be unaffected by any kind of disturbances. 

8. Self Appreciation:

Create a positive and inclusive work environment by recognizing and appreciating your contributions towards the success of the organization, promoting teamwork, and encouraging a healthy work-life balance. This can boost morale and reduce stress levels.

9. Getting Trained: 

Attend training programs on stress management techniques, resilience-building, and mindfulness. These tools can help you to effectively cope with workplace stressors and improve your mental well-being.

10. Set An Example: 

Encourage yourself to prioritize your own mental health and demonstrate healthy work habits. When you as a leader prioritize well-being, it sets a positive example for the rest of the employees working in the organization.

Remember that every workplace is unique, so it's important to assess the specific needs of your organization and tailor mental health initiatives accordingly. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies and make adjustments as needed to ensure ongoing support for your mental health.

HAPPY LEARNING!!!

By Shobha Joy Gaddam

(Academician, Educator & Ph. D. Scholar)